7 Questions to Ask Before Installing New Windows

Once you’ve decided to invest in new windows, you want to make sure you have a good experience with the process from start to finish. Many homeowners are quick to share their horror stories, but with the proper preparation, you can ensure you won’t have a story to share. When meeting with contractors and getting estimates, several questions can make your project go smoothly.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

Choosing a contractor can be a stressful process. You want to make sure that your contractor will do quality work, be easy to communicate with and give you a fair price. Most homeowners will ask their family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations before calling a few contractors for estimates. However, you first need to verify that any contractor you are considering has all their paperwork in order. A licensed and insured contractor protects you as the homeowner and should never be negotiable. Make sure any contractor you meet with is willing to confirm this information.

Is There a Specific Brand That’s Recommended?

Contractors who work with windows will naturally begin to develop preferences over time. In fact, with so many options, most homeowners are happy that they have a professional who can confidently recommend certain brands over others. Many contractors will offer several options at different prices to guarantee you can choose windows you are comfortable with. If your contractor strongly prefers or is against a particular brand, they should be able to articulate why.

Do You Install Windows Year-Round?

On a sunny and warm day in late spring, summer, or early autumn, when you plan to have your windows open anyway, the thought of having your old windows removed and your house opened – temporarily – to the elements may not be a concern. But what about in cold weather or the hottest days of summer? Will energy consumption increase while you lose heating or cooling out your gaping open windows? Generally, most quality window contractors are well-trained to minimize heating or cooling costs. They can protect your home from the elements, even if the weather is less than ideal. Most homeowners are surprised at how well a quality window contractor can install without a noticeable difference in the home’s temperature. However, most window installers will not work in extreme weather conditions, like heavy rain, wind, or extreme cold, since those can not only be unsafe for the installation team but can compromise the sealing, caulking, and adhesives. While windows can be installed year-round, your contractor may monitor the weather to make sure your installation can be done safely.

How Soon Can I Get My New Windows Installed?

This is an important question for your contractor, as most homeowners are surprised to learn how long the process is. Once you sign the contract with the contractor for new windows and determine exactly what you want for your replacements, your contractor will come out to take final measurements, and then they’ll order your new windows. Standard windows will take 4-8 weeks from measurement to installation. During high-volume installation periods, window orders can take longer, with some homeowners waiting up to 16 weeks. Before you sign the contract for new windows, your contractor should be able to give you an estimate of how long the order will take.

How Do I Prepare for the Installation Process?

Before your installation, you will need to prepare. Remove any curtains, blinds, or window treatments on your current windows, and move any furniture that blocks access to the windows out of the way so your installation team has full access to the complete window. If you have security sensors on your windows, those should be removed and turned off during installation. While it is not always required, some installers recommend removing wall decorations near the windows, as these can fall during the removal and installation. Most windows are installed from the inside, so your installation team will need access to all the rooms with a window.

How Long is the Installation Process?

On average, once your installation begins, each window will take approximately thirty minutes, although that can be longer for special windows, like bay or garden windows. For each window, the team will remove your old window, then set, level, and caulk the space to confirm a perfect fit before installing the new window and ensuring a tight seal. After all the windows have been installed, the trim work (if included) and cleanup process will begin. For most homeowners, the window installation process will be completed in a single day. It can take up to two days for larger homes or more involved installation projects. Before installation day, this should always be discussed with your contractor so you know how to prepare.

What is Included in the Installation Process?

Some window installation processes include painting and interior finishing, but not all do. In many cases, any finishing will need to be done separately. Most window installations include getting the necessary permits and disposing of the old windows. However, the entire process must be disclosed entirely in an itemized estimate before signing the contract. Make sure that everything – parts, labor, projected expenses, and any finishing processes – are spelled out so there are no surprises.

Replacing your windows is a big process and one that you do need to be prepared for. When you take the time to ask the right questions before signing the contract, you will know exactly what to expect. Choosing a contractor who communicates well can make a big difference in the success of your project.

Ready to replace your windows? Contact All-Nu Construction today to schedule a consultation and get experienced answers to all your questions.